1(22) Part I AGILITY JUDGE 1 GENERAL An agility judge must be approved by a national cynological organization acknowledged by the FCI. A foreign judge's qualifications must be checked through the FKC. An agility judge must maintain his/her skills so, that he is capable of performing the functions of a judge, and is familiar with the current developments in the sport. Agility judges' training and qualifications have been described in more detail in the instructions for training and qualifying judges (Appendix C). 2 PRINCIPLES GUIDING THE JUDGE An agility judge must know the agility rules and have an extensive knowledge of the sport. An agility judge must also be familiar with FCI's currently valid agility rules and judging guidelines. An agility judge must follow the national guidelines that Finnish agility judges have agreed on. An agility judge must be unwavering, fair and just, and treat all teams according to the same principles. An agility judge must be objective, and they may not allow personal feelings to interfere with their decisions. An agility judge must be courteous and behave appropriately. An agility judge must be impartial. An agility judge must not accept an assignment that endangers his impartiality as the judge. 3 JUDGE'S RESPONSIBILITIES An agility judge oversees that agility rules are followed in the competition. The agility judge is responsible for planning the course, overseeing the building of the course and judging the runs, according to the rules. An agility judge must take the prevailing conditions into account when assessing if the competition can proceed safely, and in conditions that are equal to all competitors. Together with the competition organizer, the agility judge decides on matters related to organizing and running the competition. The judge has the right to address competitors' inappropriate behaviour on the competition site (disciplinary matters). The agility judge also settles differences that have come up during the competition or event (complaints) and are within his power to settle. The agility judge must notify FIAGI and FKC of such violations of the agility rules that he does not have the authority to address himself. In a competition or an event, an agility judge gives the competition manager instructions on possible ID or heat checkups verifies a dog's record book before its first competition judges the classes that have been agreed on ensures that the obstacles are safe and conform to the rules oversees the building of the course signs the score sheets and certificates oversees the judges in training who are doing their training assignments, gives a written evaluation and notes the use of a trainee in the score sheets and together with the competition manager, oversees the officials in training and gives a written evaluation of their work. 4 ASSISTING AGILITY JUDGE AND TECHNICAL AIDS The agility judge decides how judging tasks are divided between the judge and the assisting judge on the course. In an international competition and the Finnish team selection competition, the assisting judge is only responsible for judging the up contact of the dog walk, in accordance with FCI Judging Guidelines.
An agility judge can use technical aids that have been approved by FCI, FKC or FIAGI to assist in the judging. 2(22) 5 NUMBER OF DOGS ASSIGNED TO THE JUDGE The organizer and the judge agree on the number of dogs assigned to the judge, when handling the judging invitation. If the number of dogs exceeds this number, the judge must be consulted as early as possible. The judge approves the preliminary timetable proposed by the organizer. 6 APPEARANCE An agility judge must wear appropriate and suitable attire. He/she is not allowed to wear sponsors' or clubs' logos. 7 TRAVEL EXPENSES, DAILY EXPENSES AND OTHER ALLOWANCES Travel expenses, daily expense allowances and accommodation and meal allowances are paid according to the tax officials' regulations, which are updated yearly. 8 TRAINEE JUDGE A person who wishes to become an agility judge must judge a number of competitions as a trainee, in order to qualify as a judge. Permission to act as a trainee judge in a competition is applied for with a written application sent to the organizer and the judge, by the last entry date. An organizer or judge has the right to refuse to accept a trainee. The judge accepts the trainee's course plans in advance, and the trainee judges them under the judge's supervision. The trainee is entitled to a meal, if food is served on site.
3(22) Part II RECORD BOOK ENTRIES 1 SIGNING THE RECORD BOOK An agility judge signs the dog's record book before its first competition. When signing the record book, the judge checks the dog's registration and microchip or tattoo. The dog must be at least 18 months and 1 day old. If a dog born on or after the first on January, 2001, has had its tail docked or ears cropped, the owner must present a veterinarian's certificate to prove that the procedure was done for veterinary purposes. Dogs with natural bobtails or short tails must have the abbreviation TÖ or LY in their registration papers. Determining the dog's size category When signing the record book, the judge determines the dog's size category. If it is obvious that the dog belongs in a certain size category, it does not have to be measured. Even if the dog is not measured, it must be present, and the judge must be able to handle the dog when signing the record book. If the dog is a borderline case, it will be measured. The dog must stand normally and in a correctly angulated pose. The measurements are taken from the top of the scapula. The agility judge notes the dog's size category in the record book and signs the record book. If a dog's size category cannot be determined, the dog is not allowed to compete. Additional measurements for determining the size category The first agility judge to measure the dog can order the dog to be measured again. In this case, the dog's size category is determined by the measuring results of three different agility judges. Each agility judge notes the size category in the record book. The first size category stands until the final decision is made. Results remain valid, even if the size category changes. A dog's size category can be checked when at least six months have passed since the previous measurement. Any changes to a dog's size category are made by a board of judges. Only an agility judge can ask for a size category change, based on a preliminary measurement. The judge who asks for the re-evaluation cannot be a member of the board. When changing a dog's size category, three agility judges must be present, and measure the dog independently of one another. The final size category of the dog is determined by the majority of measurements. If the measuring is done by a foreign judge who has been approved by a kennel organization acknowledged by FCI, a Finnish agility judge must brief him/her about the Finnish measurement practices. If a dog is selected to the Finnish team, it can be measured to check that it is in the right size category, if necessary. Checking is always done by a board of judges. Actions to be taken due to the checked measurement are listed in the Finnish team selection competition's organizing instructions (Appendix B.2). 2 RECORD BOOK ENTRIES The record book contains, in addition to the basic information on the dog, all results from major competitions and international championships (Finnish championship, Finnish team selection competition, competitions between two countries, Nordic championships, World championships), significant results from national and international competitions, and the winning results of kennel district championship competitions, and if necessary, any clarifying remarks made by an agility judge. Significant results include all results needed for moving up a level and all clean runs (0.00). The name of the judge, all results needed for moving up a level and all certificates must be noted in the record book. Team competition results are not noted in the record book. The competition manager verifies all entries in the record book, in accordance with the competition records, signed by the agility judge. A separate set of instructions will be given on the use of an electronic record book. When a team from abroad competes in Finland, entries to the record book are made according to the practices of the team's own country.
When a team competes abroad in official competitions sanctioned by a kennel organization recognized by FCI, the results can be recorded if an agility judge from a kennel organization recognized by FCI confirms the results (place, date, handler, level, course faults, time, and result) in the record book. In addition to that, the handler must be able to provide more detailed information on the event, and how the competition class corresponded to Finnish classes. The handler is not allowed to make any modifications or additions to the record book. 3 RETURNING TO LEVEL 2 4(22) Based on an application made by the owner of the dog, a dog competing in level 3 may be permanently moved back to level 2. The application is made to FIAGI. The application must contain the following information: dog's level, official name, call name, breed, sex, registration number and owner's name and contact information. An agility judge verifies the dog's assignment to level 2, based on the statement by FIAGI. The assignment is noted in the record book. It is recommended, that a copy of the statement is always kept with the dog's records in competitions. 4 FORGOTTEN RECORD BOOK If the handler has forgotten to take the dog's record book to the competition, the team may participate in the competition if their level can be verified from FIAGI's result database, FKC's dog database, or another reliable source. If the handler is unable to prove the dog's competition level or size category, the dog cannot compete. If the team gets a significant result from the competition, one that needs to be entered into the dog's record book, the handler must deliver the dog's record book and the result slip to the competition manager for signing, at the handler's expense. At the competition site, the competition manager must sign the result slip with the significant result, to verify the result. 5 LOST RECORD BOOKS If a record book is lost, the handler can ask FIAGI to provide a statement containing the dog's name, registration number and level, plus a listing of all significant results (e.g. results needed to move to a higher level, or complete a championship, or results from major competitions), and the competitions where they were obtained. If necessary, FIAGI may ask for additional information related to the request. On the basis of the statement or an accurate and witnessed copy of the record book, an agility judge signs a new record book.
5(22) Part III PLANNING THE COURSE 1 GENERAL When planning and building a course, the agility judge must use a wide selection of national obstacles. The difference between levels is created by the level of skills and speed required. The speed and length of the course are taken into consideration when defining the standard course time. The judge must plan a suitably difficult course for each level. On a well designed course, the team is required to have both skills and speed, and they should negotiate the course easily and fluently. The aim is to find a balance between controlling the dog, avoiding faults and maintaining speed. The venue, ring surface, obstacles and weather conditions must be taken into consideration when designing the course, and determining the jump heights and standard course time. 2 INSTRUCTIONS FOR COURSE DESIGN All nationally accepted obstacles are available for an agility course. An agility course must pass through contact obstacles at least twice, and different contact obstacles should be preferred. A jumping course has no contact obstacles or table. Preferably, at least seven (7) different obstacles should be used on an agility course and five (5) on a jumping course. The course is 100-200 m long. Depending on the level, the dog must negotiate 15-22 obstacles, out of which at least seven are jumps with bars (hurdle, spread jump). The judge plans the course as he likes, but the running direction must change at least twice. The distance between two obstacles that are taken in sequence is 4-7 m (small) and 5-7 m (medium, large). The handler should be able to pass each obstacle on either side. The first obstacle must be a hurdle and the last obstacle can be a hurdle or a spread jump. Weaving poles and tyre jump may only be negotiated once per run. Spread jump, tyre, long jump and collapsed tunnel must be placed so, that they can be approached in a straight line from the previous obstacle. The tyre jump must be placed so, that the feet of the obstacle are not clearly on the dog's or handler's path. On a level 1 agility course, the maximum number of times the course goes through contact obstacles is three. The judge can choose to include up to four contacts on a level 2 or 3 course. 3 BUILDING THE COURSE Before the start of the competition, the agility judge checks the available obstacles and gives the course plan to the organizer, who is responsible for building the course. The obstacles on the course designed by the agility judge must be numbered, starting from 1 and leading up to 22 at the most. The numbers and letters must be placed so, that they do not stop the team from running the course the way they want to, and that it is safe for the dog to negotiate the obstacle. The agility judge checks the course, obstacle numbering, and course length and defines the SCT and the MCT before the competition class begins. 4 TIMING The running time of the dog is measured with at least two stop watches, capable of recording time to 1/100th of a second. In major competitions, international and other competitions defined by FIAGI, primarily electron-
ic timing equipment is used. In other competitions, electronic timing equipment should be used, whenever possible. FIAGI can provide instructions for using timing equipment. 6(22) 5 STANDARD COURSE TIME (SCT) The agility judge determines the SCT based on competition level, special features and prevailing conditions. The SCT is calculated by dividing the length of the course by the desired speed of the dogs. The desired speed of the dogs is given as m/s. However, the desired speed is just a reference figure and speed should not be the primary judging criterion. Exceeding the SCT leads to time faults. Example: course is 160 m long, dog speed at 4,0 m/s, SCT 40 seconds (160m : 4,0 m/s). SCT may be changed after the first five (5) dogs in the competition class have run. The agility judge must notify the scorekeeper of the new SCT immediately after the fifth team. Instructions for organizing major competitions may include separate mathematical formulas for calculating the SCT. An SCT calculated this way is defined separately, so that it is possible to compare different courses and decide on placements when the system is based on scoring points. 6 MAXIMUM COURSE TIME (MCT) The maximum course time is 1.5-2 times the SCT.
7(22) Part IV JUDGING THE RUNS 1 GENERAL All teams' runs are judged according to the same judging principles. Unclear cases are solved in favour of the team. Judge's decisions cannot be appealed. 2 WALKING THE COURSE Dogs entered in the competition are not allowed in the ring before their turn. Handlers have the possibility to walk the course before their competition class begins. If necessary, the judge holds a briefing before the course walking begins. At least 5 minutes must be reserved for walking the course. If there are more than 40 competitors, the group should be divided in two, or more time reserved. A group may not have more than 50 handlers, and if necessary, the group should be divided into two or more smaller groups. The time reserved for different groups must be equal, and the number of handlers per group approximately the same. Coaches or other assistants are not allowed to walk the course. A handler with a special permit may be given the right to continue walking the course alone, or with other handlers with a special permit, for two extra minutes, or they may be granted other special rights for walking the course. The handler is not to leave or drop anything in the ring during the walking. The handler is not allowed to move the obstacles or numbers. Any complaints about the obstacles or numbers must be made to the agility judge. After the course walking, the first team should have at least 2 minutes to prepare for their run. 3 RUNNING THE COURSE The handler will go into the ring and place the dog (sit, down or stand) behind the start line. If the dog is still on lead at that point, the dog s lead and collar are taken off. For safety reasons, dogs must never wear these while running the course. The handler will start his dog after the judge s signal. The time will start as soon as the dog crosses the start line, or the handler starts the timing. A variety of commands and signals are allowed during the test. The handler must ensure that the dog traverses the obstacles in the correct order, without touching the dog or the obstacles. The handler must not negotiate, go under, or over the obstacles. The run is finished and the time stopped when the dog crosses the finish line after taking the last obstacle. The team must leave the ring immediately. 4 JUDGE'S SIGNAL The agility judge gives a clear start signal. If e.g. the timekeeper gives the signal, this must be pointed out in the judge's briefing. After the start signal, the team must start their run without delay. The handler is allowed to leave the dog in the start area, and to choose his/her position on the course. If the handler returns to the dog, or otherwise delays the start, the judge may givea a warning by blowing the whistle twice. If the handler still delays the start, the judge may revoke their right to run by blowing the whistle three times. 5 NATIONAL OBSTACLES The obstacles must be in accordance with the rules and the enclosed drawings. The agility judge is responsible for using only safe obstacles on the course. The organizer is responsible for providing the agility judge with obstacles that are built according to the rules, in good condition and safe. FIAGI can give supplementary instructions on obstacle safety.
Obstacles and course may be decorated, as long as it does not obstruct a team or make it dangerous for them to run. The judge must build the course using the national obstacles: Jumps Contact obstacles Other obstacles hurdle A-frame weaving poles spread jump dog walk table wall see-saw tube tunnel long jump flat tunnel (collapsible) tyre The agility judge should be provided with a set of obstacles complying with the rules, containing at least: 14 hurdles with poles (1 brush fence, 1 hurdle with full panel, and 1 hurdle with gate are also allowed), 1 wall, 1 long jump, 1 (collapsible) tyre, 1 A-frame, 1 dog walk, 1 see-saw, 1 set of weaving poles, 1 table, 2 tube tunnels and 1 flat tunnel. The table may only be used, if an electronic timing device for it is available. 8(22) 6 FAULTS Total faults consist of time faults and course faults. During a run, a team can be faulted with the following faults: Time faults The time of the team is measured to 1/100th of a second, and exceeding the SCT causes time faults. For every excess second, an equal number of faults is given, using the 1/100th of a second as the smallest measuring unit. For example, exceeding the SCT by 1.56 seconds gives 1.56 faults. s All course faults are in units of five (5). a) handler's faults handler passes between the start or finish poles, or cuts or crosses the line between the poles in some other way handler gains an advantage by touching his dog handler gains an advantage by touching an obstacle b) obstacle faults faults described separately for each obstacle if more than one part of an obstacle falls down or is knocked over, the team is faulted only once if a part of an obstacle falls after the dog has negotiated the next obstacle, the team is not faulted. c) refusals dog stops on the course refusals described separately for each obstacle d) other course faults a repeat run (force majeure situations) is not performed in a competitive spirit Refusals must be corrected; failure to do so will result in disqualification. The dog is considered to have left a contact obstacle, tube tunnel or flat tunnel when it has touched the ground with all four paws.
9(22) 7 DISQUALIFYING A RUN General grounds for disqualifying a team have been defined in the competition rules. During the judge's briefing, the agility judge may give the handlers permission to run the rest of the course, after a disqualification, in a competitive spirit, but the team may not stay on the course to practise. If the run is not performed in a competitive spirit, the judge may ask the team to leave the course immediately.
10(22) Part V MEASUREMENTS, NEGOTIATION AND JUDGING OF OBSTACLES 1 START AND FINISH There should be enough room (at least 6 m) at the start and finish. The start and finish areas can be inside the ring. START Start line The start line is the line connecting the two start poles and continuing in a straight line beyond the poles. The start line is a part of the course. However, the start line and the poles are not an obstacle. The poles must not obstruct the dog's or the handler's path. The first obstacle behind the start line is always a single hurdle. The start line must be placed within 1 m of the first obstacle. Timing Timing always starts when the dog crosses the start line, whether it jumps the first hurdle or not. After the dog has passed the start line, it can be faulted in the usual way. Timing also starts when the handler crosses the line between the timing poles. NEGOTIATING THE START LINE Dog crosses the start line and continues the run. JUDGING THE START LINE the dog is placed behind the start line again, after it has already crossed the line one once (unless ordered by the judge) handler passes between the start poles, or crosses the start line in some other way (timing starts) FINISH Finish line The finish line is the line connecting the two finish poles. The finish line is a part of the course. However, the finish line and the poles are not an obstacle. The poles must not obstruct the dog's or the handler's path. The last obstacle in front of the finish line is always a single hurdle or a spread jump. The finish line must be placed within 1 m of the last obstacle. Timing ends only after the dog has negotiated the last obstacle correctly. NEGOTIATING THE FINISH LINE Dog crosses the finish line when the run ends. JUDGING THE FINISH LINE handler passes between the finish poles, or crosses the finish line in some other way (timing does not stop).
11(22) 2 JUMPS HURDLE Height: large (L) 55-65 cm medium (M) 35-45 cm small (S) 25-35 cm Bar hurdle 120-150 cm Width: 120-150 cm between the wings A hurdle can be set up with bars, panels, crosses, brushes etc. The top part must be a pole, easily displaced. Apart from the holder holding the bar, no part (bar holders or cups), removable or permanent, should be protruding from the upright or wing. large (L) 55-65 cm medium (M) 35-45 cm small (S) 25-35 cm 28-50 mm 40-60 cm min. 75 cm min. 100 cm The diameter of a bar must be min 30 mm and max 50 mm, and it must be painted so, that there are at least three distinct stripes on it. The bar can be made of wood, or a safe synthetic material, metal bars are not recommended. The bar may not be too light or too heavy, and it may not have sharp edges, that could cause pain on impact. The bars of different hurdles should be equally difficult to knock down. NB: Metal bars are not allowed in international competitions. Panel hurdle The inner vertical support of the wing must be at least 100 cm, and the inner part of the wing itself at least 75 cm in height. The wing is 40-60 cm wide. Wings may not be attached to one another. The wing should be built so, that the dog may not go under or through the wing. Brush hurdle As far as the wing measurements are concerned, there is a transition period for national competitions. NEGOTIATING THE HURDLE Dog jumps over the bar. JUDGING THE HURDLES Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle in such a way that it can no longer be negotiated correctly. Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog runs below the bar dog stops in front of the obstacle dog jumps over the upright or wing the dog knocks down a part of the obstacle
12(22) SPREAD JUMP Height: large (L) 55-65 cm medium (M) 35-45 cm small (S) 25-35 cm Maximum depth: large (L) 55 cm medium (M) 40 cm small (S) 30 cm In small and medium categories, the lowest bar holder can also be placed at a height between 10 and 20 cm. For the large size category, the lowest bar can also be placed at the height of 50 cm. Rear bar: 120 cm - 150 cm + 10 cm Differences in bar heights 15-25 cm A spread jump consists of two hurdles with poles, placed together to form a double spread jump. The bars are placed in ascending order with a difference in height of 15 to 25 cm. The rear bar must be at least 10 cm longer than the front bar. Length of shorter bar: 120 cm - 150 cm large (L) 55-65 cm medium (M) 35-45 cm small (S) 25-35 cm Heights of the 1st bar: large (L) 35-50 cm medium (M) 10-30 cm small (S) 10-20 cm max: depth large (L) 55 cm medium (M) 40 cm small (S) 30 cm Apart from the holder holding the bar, no part (bar holders or cups), removable or permanent, may be protruding from the upright or wing. Minimum width between wings is 120-150 cm. NEGOTIATING THE SPREAD JUMP The dog jumps over the bars. JUDGING THE SPREAD JUMP Judged in the same way as the single hurdles. If the dog knocks down both bars, it is only faulted once.
WALL JUMP Height: large (L) medium (M) small (S) 55-65 cm 35-45 cm 25-35 cm 13(22) min. 10 cm Width: panel in the middle 120-150 cm Thickness: approx. 20 cm at the bottom of the middle panel, at least 10 cm at the top Uprights: clearly higher than the middle panel, separate and min. 100 cm high. Width and depth can vary between 20 and 40 cm. Uprights are a part of the obstacle. The height of the wall can be modified by adding parts under the panel or by using displaceable units of different heights on top of the wall. Three or four displaceable and safe units, shaped like those in the picture below, must be placed on top of the wall. Units must be set slightly apart, so that they can be easily dislodged. The panel can be solid or have one or two tunnel shaped openings. 120-150 cm large (L) 55-65 cm medium (M) 35-45 cm small (S) 25-35 cm min. 120-150 cm at least 100 cm n. 20 cm 3 to 4 displaceable parts syv. 10-20 cm 20-40 cm 20-40 cm NEGOTIATING THE WALL Dog jumps over the panel section. JUDGING THE WALL JUMP The dog can only be faulted once, even if it knocks down several parts of the wall jump. Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle in such a way that it can no longer be negotiated correctly Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog runs through the tunnel in the panel dog stops in front of the obstacle one or several parts of the obstacle are knocked down the upright falls down
14(22) LONG JUMP The total length of the obstacle is: large (L) 120-150 cm (4-5 units) medium (M) 70-90 cm (3-4 of the lowest units) small (S) 40-50 cm (2 of the lowest units) Corner poles, with a minimum height of 1.20 m should be placed at all four corners (not fixed to any of the units). The top of these poles should be covered to protect dog and handler if necessary. Corner poles are not a part of the obstacle. Unit width: 120-150 cm Height of highest unit: 28 cm Height of lowest unit: 15 cm Depth of units: 15 cm large (L) 120-150 cm medium (M) 70-90 cm small (S) 40-50 cm The obstacle consists of 2-5 units that are placed at equal distances. The units are placed at equal distances in ascending order. The first unit must be at least 120 cm, and the last unit may not be more than 150 cm wide. n. 120 cm (2 to 5 units) 120-150 cm min. 120 cm 15 cm 15 cm 28 cm NEGOTIATING THE LONG JUMP The dog jumps over the obstacle with a single leap in the correct direction. JUDGING THE LONG JUMP A passing contact with the obstacle is not faulted. The corner poles are there to help judging. If the dog or handler touches a corner pole and knocks it down, they will not be faulted even if the pole causes one or more units to topple.the dog can only be faulted once, even if it knocks down several parts of the long jump. Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle in such a way that it can no longer be negotiated correctly Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog jumps to the side of the obstacle dog enters the obstacle from one side and exits correctly dog walks over the obstacle dog stops in front of the obstacle dog steps on a unit or between the units one or more units topple when the dog negotiates the obstacle
15(22) (COLLAPSIBLE) TYRE Aperture diameter: 45-60 cm Aperture centre from the ground: large (L) 80 cm medium (M) and small (S) 55 cm min. 15 cm max. 150 cm Width of tyre: 8-18 cm The tyre must be adjustable in height. Attachments and the adjustment system must be safe; fixed or rigid attachments are not allowed. The frame should be no more than 150 cm wide. The space between the frame and the tyre must be at least 15 cm. The base of this obstacle should be approximately 1.5 x the height measured from the floor to the top edge of the tyre, in size category Large. The obstacle should be sturdy and stable. The use of a collapsible tyre is recommended, and will be mandatory by 1.1.2017. As far as the measurements of the tyre and the frame are concerned, there is a transition period for national competitions. large (L) 80 cm medium (M) 55 cm small (S) 55 cm collabsible tyre 45-60 cm 8-18 cm height from the top of the large (L)-size tyre Length of the base 1,5 * height from the top of the large (L)-size tyre NEGOTIATING THE TYRE Dog jumps through the tyre JUDGING THE TYRE Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle (incl. the collapsible tyre) in such a way, that it can no longer be negotiated correctly Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog jumps between the tyre and the frame dog stops in front of the obstacle dog jumps so, that the obstacle topples collapsible tyre collapses when the dog jumps through it
16(22) CONTACT OBSTACLES A-FRAME Width: min 90 cm, which may be increased at the bottom to 1.15 m. Ramp length: 265-275 cm Height: 170 cm between inner edges 25 cm n. 25 cm min. min. 10 cm10 cm 90 cm large (L) 170 cm medium (M) ramp length small (S) 265-275 cm 106 cm 20 mm 5-10 mm - width of the slat 20 mm - thickness of the slat 5-10 mm 90-115 cm The A-frame consists of two ramps forming an A shape. The apex of the obstacle forms an angle. The A-frame must be steady, and its surfaces may not be slippery. Each ramp should have anti-slip slats at regular intervals (about every 25 cm.) to help avoid slipping and make the climb easier; however, no slats within 10 cm of the start of a contact area. The slats should be 20 mm. wide and 5 to 10 mm thick and must not have sharp edges. The top of the A-frame may not present any danger to the dogs, and must be covered if necessary. The bottom edges of the ramps must not have sharp edges, and they must be built so, that the dog's paws cannot slip under the obstacle. The supporting structures of the A-frame may not prevent a tunnel from being placed safely under the obstacle. The last 106 cm from the bottom of each ramp should have a different colour (on the sides as well) to indicate the contact area. White, black or brown are not recommended colours for contact zones. As far as the colouring is concerned, there is a transition period for national competitions. Electronic contact zones are allowed. NEGOTIATING THE A-FRAME The dog touches the up contact with at least one paw or part of a paw, continues over the obstacle and touches the down contact with at least one paw or part of a paw, before leaving the obstacle. JUDGING THE A-FRAME Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle in such a way, that it can no longer be negotiated correctly Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog leaves the obstacle before going over the top dog stops in front of the obstacle dog passes a contact area and does not touch it with at least one paw or part of a paw
17(22) DOG WALK Height: 120 cm to 130 cm Width: 30 cm Ramp length: 360 cm to 380 cm n. 25 cm - between inner edges 25 cm 20 mm 5-10 mm 360-380 cm 360-380 cm 120-130 cm - width of the slat 20 mm - thickness of the slat 5-10 mm - supporting structure/leg allowed 30 cm 90 cm min. min. 10 cm10 cm The dog walk must be steady, and it may not be slippery. Each ramp should have anti-slip slats at regular intervals (about every 25 cm.) to help avoid slipping and make the climb easier; however, no slats within 10 cm. of the start of a contact area. The slats must be 20 mm. wide and 5 to 10 mm. thick, and must not have sharp edges. The bottom edges of the ramps must not have sharp edges, and they must be built so, that the dog's paws cannot slip under the obstacle. The supporting legs may not come above the level of the ramps or the middle section. The legs and other supporting structures of the dog walk may not prevent a tunnel from being placed safely under the obstacle. The last 90 cm. from the bottom of each ramp should be of a different colour (on the sides as well), to indicate the contact area. White, black or brown are not recommended colours for contact zones. As far as the obstacle height, length and colouring are concerned, there is a transition period for national competitions. Electronic contact zones are allowed. NEGOTIATING THE DOG WALK The dog touches the up contact with at least one paw or part of a paw, continues over the obstacle and touches the down contact with at least one paw or part of a paw before leaving the obstacle. JUDGING THE DOG WALK Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle in such a way, that it can no longer be negotiated correctly Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog leaves the obstacle before touching the descending ramp with four paws dog stops in front of the obstacle dog passes a contact area without touching it with at least one paw or part of a paw
18(22) SEE-SAW Width: 30 cm Length: 360-380 cm Height: The height of the center point is 60 cm, measured from the top of the plank. cerned, there is a transition period for national competitions. Electronic contact zones are allowed. The obstacle must be stable and the plank may not be slippery. However, anti-slip slats are not allowed. The last 90 cm. on each end of the plank should be of a different colour (on the sides as well) to indicate the contact area. White, black or brown are not recommended colours for contact zones. 360-380 cm The see-saw must be properly balanced (must not tip too fast or too slow), and allow the small dogs to tip it without problems. The axis of the see-saw may not be more than 10 cm below the plank, measured from the bottom surface of the plank. The ends of the plank must not have sharp edges, and they must be built so, that the dog's paws cannot slip under the obstacle. 30 cm 90 cm max. 10 cm 60 cm Measuring point As far as the obstacle height, length and colouring, as well as the placement of the axis are con- Check: The see-saw must tip between 2 and 4 seconds when a weight of 1 kilo is placed halfway between the axis and the end of the obstacle. If this is not the case, adjustments must be made. The see-saw must be built so, that it is easy to adjust. It should also revert to its original position in 2-4 seconds. NB: In international competitions, the see-saw is adjusted according to the FCI agility rules. NEGOTIATING THE SEE-SAW The dog touches the up contact with at least one paw or part of a paw, continues over the obstacle and touches the down contact with at least one paw or part of a paw before leaving the obstacle. The descending end of the plank must touch the ground before the dog leaves the seesaw. JUDGING THE SEE-SAW Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle in such a way that it can no longer be negotiated correctly Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog leaves the obstacle before touching the descending half of the plank with four paws dog stops in front of the obstacle dog passes a contact area and does not touch it with at least one paw or part of a paw dog leaves the obstacle before the plank touches the ground
19(22) OTHER OBSTACLES WEAVING POLES The number of poles is 12 Pole height: 100-120 cm Pole diameter: 3-5 cm The poles are fairly rigid and placed 60 cm apart (measured from the outer rim of the pole). The poles must be made of wood, or a safe synthetic material (metal is not recommended). NB: In international competitions, metal poles may not be used. As far as the base measurements are concerned, there is a transition period for national competitions. 3-5 cm The base structure must be sturdy and safe. The base supports may not be placed in the dog's path. The maximum thickness of the base is 8 mm, the maximum width is 8 cm. 100-120 cm max. 8 mm max. 8 cm 60 cm NEGOTIATING THE WEAVING POLES The dog enters the weaving poles, so that the first pole is on the left side of the dog, goes through the set in the correct order, and finishes with the last pole on the right side of the dog. JUDGING THE WEAVING POLES Each incorrect entry will be penalized with a refusal (5 faults). For further errors, a dog should only be penalized once, with a fault (5 faults). Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle in such a way, that it can no longer be negotiated correctly the obstacle must be completed correctly before negotiating the next obstacle, failure to do so will result in elimination on the next obstacle. back weaving (more than 2 gates) Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog enters the weaves incorrectly dog stops in front of the obstacle missing a gate
20(22) TABLE Height: large (L) 60 cm medium (M) and small (S) 35 cm so, that the dog can go under the obstacle. The side and top of the table must be of different colours. The table top must measure at least 90 x 90 cm and no more than 120 x 120 cm. The table must be stable with a non-slippery surface. An electronic timing device (audible signal after 5 seconds) can be built into the table surface, except for an area, 10 cm. wide around the top edges of the table. The edges of the table must not be dangerous to the dog. The supporting structures must be built A B C D 90-120 cm large (L) 60 cm medium (M) 35 cm small (S) 35 cm NEGOTIATING THE TABLE Dog jumps on the table from one of the three sides closest to the direction of the dog, and remains there for the required time. JUDGING THE TABLE The dog must stay on the table for 5 seconds. The dog may be in any position, which may be changed during the stay, but the weight of the dog must be supported by the table. The count will start as soon as the dog is on the table. The time spent on the table must be measured electronically, using an electronic timing device built in the table, or a separarte electronic timer operated by the judge (beeper). The judge will brief the competitors on the countdown method before the competition starts. If the dog leaves the table before the count is finished and the judge has given the signal, it will have to get back on the table, and the count is restarted. The dog can get on the table from three sides: A, B and C. If the dog passes the table, goes under it or leaves before the signal, it can get back on the table from any direction. Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle in such a way that it can no longer be negotiated correctly dog leaves the table before the count is finished and does not return; this will result in disqualification on the next obstacle the handler starts the electronic timer Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog goes under the obstacle dog stops in front of the obstacle dog leaves the table before the signal
21(22) TUBE TUNNEL Inner diameter: 60 cm Length: 3-6 m The tube tunnel must be flexible, so that one or more bends can be formed. Black tunnels are not recommended for use in competitions. The tube tunnel must be secured, so that it stays in the correct shape and position. 300-600 cm 60 cm NEGOTIATING THE TUBE TUNNEL Dog passes through the tunnel JUDGING THE TUBE TUNNEL Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle in such a way that it can no longer be negotiated correctly Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog jumps or walks over the tunnel dog enters the tunnel (even partially) and returns dog stops in front of the obstacle none
22(22) FLAT TUNNEL Entrance: Height: 60 cm Width: 60 65 cm Length: 90 cm The cloth section is made of flexible material. Exit: Length: 2,5 m 3,0 m Diameter: 60-65 cm 90 cm 250-300 cm The surface of the tunnel entry may not be slippery. The rim of the entry must be padded. The entrance must be secured to its location. If possible, the exit should be pegged down - the pegs should be no more than 50 cm. apart. 60 cm 60-65 cm Negotiating the flat tunnel Dog passes through the flat tunnel Judging the flat tunnel Dog or handler disturbs the obstacle in such a way, that it can no longer be negotiated correctly Refusal dog runs by the obstacle dog turns away from the obstacle and has to return dog jumps or walks over the obstacle dog enters the tunnel (even partially) and returns dog stops in front of the obstacle none TRANSITION PERIOD The transition period for those obstacles that need modifications ends on Dec 31, 2016, i.e. before the next FCI rule updates. CHANGES TO AGILITY JUDGING GUIDELINES Changes to this document are accepted by the board of FKC, based on a motion by FIAGI's board of directors.